It’s all about the heart. What do I mean by that? Well, when talking about “heart” in communication, I’m referring to the emotional and relational aspects of how we connect with others. Sadly, much of the interaction that we see today lacks feeling and depth. It largely ignores the inherent desire we all have for inspired understanding.

Nowhere is this more true than in the workplace. Unfortunately, most tend to think that there is no place or time in business for emotion, instead favoring facts and needs to a fault. Although this kind of communication can be effective within the right team, it requires an established rapport and common understanding that most do not possess. Otherwise, it produces a sterile and disengaging environment riddled with strained interactions and little hope of effective collaboration.  

Alternatively, if you want people to really hear you, it is essential to incorporate authenticity, empathy, positive intent, and emotional awareness into your words and actions, rather than just conveying information. These are the key ingredients for impacting listeners and invoking them to action. 

 So what does “heart” in communication look like? 

1. Authenticity and Honesty 

• Why it’s necessary: People can often tell when someone is being insincere, and this can create barriers in communication. When you speak from the heart, your words are more genuine, and others are more likely to trust you. With trust comes alignment and contribution. 
  
  
• How to apply it: Be honest about your thoughts, and intentions. Don’t just say what you think others want to hear; instead, speak truthfully and let your genuine sentiment come through. Also, take the time to explain and answer the ever present question of why. 

2. Empathy 

• Why it’s necessary: Understanding and caring about another person’s feelings allows for more meaningful connections. When you communicate with empathy, you show that you truly care about the other person’s perspective, which fosters trust and strengthens relationships. Once demonstrated, an established pattern of empathetic communication will produce an eagerness to offer something in return. Your audience is far more inclined to quickly respond to your requests and go the extra mile to help when there is a need.
  
  
• How to apply it: Listen actively and try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes. Acknowledge their feelings (“I can see that this is really important to you”) and respond with kindness and support. 

3. Positive Intent 

• Why it’s necessary: Communicating with heart involves assuming the best of others, which can help resolve misunderstandings and prevent conflicts. When you approach communication with positive intent, you’re more likely to inspire goodwill and understanding. Most of the time our negative assumptions are incorrect anyway. And in the rare instance that there is true malice or negativity, your patience and goodwill may be just what is required to neutralize it. 
  
  
• How to apply it: When there’s disagreement or tension, try to see the situation from the other person’s perspective and approach the conversation with an open mind, assuming that they have good intentions, even if their actions or words don’t align with yours. 

4. Emotional Awareness 

• Why it’s necessary: Being aware of your emotions, as well as those of the other person, enables you to navigate conversations more skillfully. When you communicate with heart, you respond in ways that are emotionally intelligent and respectful. This practice pays dividends, whether by enhancing your referent power and influence, or by helping to establish your reputation among leadership as someone able to navigate complex situations. Honing this ability will be a clear differentiator among your peers and may just be the trait that lands you that next promotion.
  
  
• How to apply it: Before speaking, check in with your own emotional state. Are you upset, anxious, or calm? Are you bringing those emotions into the conversation in a productive way? Similarly, try to gauge the emotional state of the other person and respond with sensitivity. 

 Why “Heart” Communication Matters: 

When you communicate with heart, you make others feel heard, valued, and respected. It helps foster a connection that goes beyond surface-level interactions, allowing for deeper relationships, whether personal or professional. Communication with heart is what transforms simple exchanges into meaningful collaborations, helping both parties feel understood and supported. 

Proverbs 4:23 says: 

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” 

This verse emphasizes that the heart is the wellspring of our actions, thoughts, and words. What is inside our hearts—our attitudes, beliefs, and desires—directly influences how we behave and interact with others. In the context of communication, this reminds us that speaking from a place of sincerity, and integrity reflects the condition of our hearts, which as we discussed earlier has a profound impact on the way others receive our words. The deeper truth here is that you can’t fake it. Feeling one thing but trying to say another is destined to fail. We must be true to what we believe or challenge it through our own introspection. If we aren’t fully convinced of what we’re saying, no one else is going to buy it either.   

Want help further developing your professional communication skills? Schedule a complimentary consultation today to find out how.